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SAINT-THOMAS
Beauty and splendor
In the U.S. Virgin Islands
A truly privileged destination for its pristine beaches lapped by turquoise waters in an exotic setting, Saint Thomas owes its beauty to its lush surroundings and its mountains offering breathtaking panoramas. The island is synonymous with exoticism, luxury, and an opulent lifestyle where often the Jet Set international gatherings are taking place.
Louise Bourbonnais
The archipelago of the American Virgin Islands, also known as the US Virgin Islands , located between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, between the Lesser and Greater Antilles, comprises three main islands and about fifty islets. Saint Thomas is the largest of these, followed by Saint John and Saint Croix.
Nearly two million tourists visit it each year, mainly American tourists. Its port of call is one of the most popular with cruise ships.
Charlotte Amalie
It's the most popular port of call for cruise ships. No fewer than 1,500 duty-free shops cater to cruise passengers in the streets of the capital city near the port, located on the island's south coast. Don't miss taking the cable car to the top of Flag Hill. The view over Charlotte Amalie Bay is breathtaking. But as beautiful as it is, day-trippers, leave the city and head north. The roads are mountainous and steep, and the scenery enchanting. You'll discover spectacular viewpoints offering stunning views of the sea. You can admire the string of U.S. and British Virgin Islands, including Tortola and Virgin Gorda.
Favorite for Magens Bay
The south coast of St. Thomas is much more commercialized and has lost its wild, unspoiled charm. To discover the true essence of a pristine island, head to the north coast. The beaches are sublime. I fell in love with Magens Bay, undoubtedly the most beautiful beach on the island, internationally renowned as one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. Several villas are built on the hillside, offering panoramic views of Magens Bay.
Sailing excursion
To get a close look at the phenomenal number of small, deserted islands, a sailing excursion is a wonderful way to stop for a picnic and a swim at a private beach. The crew will even tell you where Hollywood stars, who often own villas on private islands, hide.
Day trip to St. John
It is the prettiest and most peaceful of the three main islands. Many wealthy Americans go there to get married. Ferries run daily from St. Thomas to St. John. What distinguishes St. John is that two-thirds of the island, and a large portion of its coastal waters, are designated as a national park.
For what types of travelers?
Since the cost of living is slightly higher than elsewhere in the Caribbean, this destination is best suited to those with a more generous budget. Water sports enthusiasts, especially sailing lovers, will be well catered for. Golf, paragliding, and horseback riding are also popular activities. It's ideal for those who appreciate expert tourism, high-end accommodations, and idyllic locations to explore. Saint Thomas is an antidote to the blues, a feast for the eyes, and a delight for the soul, all within a civilized setting.
To know
– Some tour operators offer packages from Montreal to Saint Thomas via Toronto including flight and accommodation.
– American Airlines offers direct flights from Miami to St. Thomas at affordable prices.
– If you are looking for a 5-star hotel, the Ritz Carlton will meet your expectations.
– It can be very advantageous to plan your own trip. The Expedia website offers good discounts on hotels.
Condo and villa rentals are also very popular.
Practical advice
– As for shopping, you will find designer clothes and bags at affordable prices.
– Coral World is an interesting place to observe sharks, rays and barracudas.
– For history buffs, the island is home to several historical monuments.
– Driving is done on the left.
Public transport is inadequate outside of Charlotte Amalie. Several group coach tours are available from hotels, but they are not always economical. It's better to rent a car or take a taxi.
– Book your car in advance, as the number of vehicles is limited.
A passionate traveler and journalist by profession, Louise Bourbonnais specialized in tourism and has undertaken over 200 press trips in the last twenty years. A true globetrotting journalist, she has traveled to more than 60 countries around the world over the years to produce travel reports for specialized publications, consumer magazines, the daily newspaper La Presse , and the Journal de Montréal . She has also been a television commentator for Canal Évasion. The vast majority of her reports on this blog have been published in major media outlets.
